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Picture of Zanzibar, Tanzania

Travel Guide for
Zanzibar

Tanzania

Tropical, warm, humid, two rainy seasons

Introduction

Zanzibar, a stunning archipelago off Tanzania’s coast, blends Swahili, Arab, and European influences, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Stone Town, the island’s historic heart, features winding alleys, bustling markets, and fascinating architecture, all happily explored under November’s warm weather—expect sunny days and pre-monsoon breezes, ideal for work and play.

For digital nomads, cozy cafés with reliable Wi-Fi line the beachfront, offering scenic spots to work between dips in the turquoise Indian Ocean. Affordable guesthouses and co-working spaces cater to remote workers, while evenings can be spent sampling street food or savoring a sunset dhow cruise.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleDigital nomad

Dates07-12 November 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel, apartment or house, homestay

Interests and Activities:

arts and culturenightlife and entertainmentoutdoor adventuresfestivals and eventssightseeing and toursvolunteeringgastronomy

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Picture of Zanzibar, Tanzania

Key Facts

Location

East Africa, Indian Ocean

Currency

Tanzanian Shilling (TZS)

Religion

Islam (dominant), Christianity, Hinduism

Population

1,800,000

Language

Swahili, English, Arabic

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type G/D plug

Time zone

UTCEAT (UTC+3)

Country code

+255

Internet access

Widespread 4G/3G mobile, WiFi in hotels/cafes

Climate

Tropical, warm, humid, two rainy seasons

See More Tanzania Facts

Language:

Swahili

  • hello

    jambo (jam-bo)
  • goodbye

    kwa heri (kwa he-ri)
  • yes

    ndiyo (n-dee-yo)
  • no

    hapana (ha-pa-na)
  • how much

    hii ni bei gani? (hee nee bay ga-ni)
  • please

    tafadhali (ta-fa-dha-li)
  • thank you

    asante (a-san-te)
  • excuse me

    samahani (sa-ma-ha-ni)

Map

Logistics

The easiest way to reach Zanzibar is by flying. There are direct international flights to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ), or you can catch a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam or Nairobi—both are quick and affordable options for digital nomads. Alternatively, the ferry from Dar es Salaam is budget-friendly and takes about two hours.

There are no trains directly to Zanzibar since it’s an island, but you can take buses to Dar es Salaam, then proceed by ferry or plane. From November 7 to 12, expect hot and sometimes rainy weather, which can occasionally affect ferry schedules; flights are usually more reliable during these months. No visa is needed for most short-term stays, but check for updated entry requirements.

Weather

Zanzibar enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures between 25°C and 32°C (77°F–90°F). There are two main rainy seasons: the long rains from March to May and the short rains in November and December. Sunshine is abundant outside rainy periods, making it great for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and beach activities.

From November 7 to November 12, you can expect mostly warm, humid days with occasional short but heavy showers as the short rainy season begins. Rainfall is typically brief, so planned festivals, nightlife, and cultural tours generally continue uninterrupted. Extreme weather events, such as storms or flooding, are rare but possible during this transition.

Food & Drink

Zanzibar’s cuisine blends Swahili, Arabic, and Indian influences, with must-try dishes like Zanzibari biryani, octopus curry, and urojo (a spicy soup). Fresh tropical fruit juices and spiced teas are refreshing local drinks. Don’t miss street food at Forodhani Night Market for authentic flavors and an affordable atmosphere.

For digital nomads, cafes like Café Turki and Puzzle Coffee Shop in Stone Town offer good Wi-Fi and casual coworking vibes. Local restaurants such as Lukmaan and Passing Show serve delicious, budget-friendly local meals. Tipping isn’t mandatory but rounding up the bill or adding 5-10% is appreciated.

Vegetarians will find many options, but always check for hidden meat or seafood ingredients. During Ramadan, note that some restaurants may have limited hours, so plan accordingly.

A picture of Ugali

Ugali

Ugali is a staple food in Tanzania, made from maize flour or cassava flour cooked with water to...

A picture of Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma

Nyama Choma is a popular grilled meat dish in Tanzania, featuring marinated chunks of meat (often goat or...

A picture of Mishkaki

Mishkaki

Mishkaki consists of skewered and grilled chunks of marinated meat (commonly beef or chicken), typically seasoned with a...

A picture of Mchuzi wa Samaki

Mchuzi wa Samaki

Mchuzi wa Samaki is a traditional Tanzanian fish curry, featuring a flavorful tomato-based sauce infused with aromatic spices....

A picture of Pilau

Pilau

Pilau is a fragrant and aromatic rice dish cooked with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, cumin, and...

Accommodation

For digital nomads on an average budget, Stone Town is ideal for its central location and WiFi-friendly cafes; check out Four Points by Sheraton for comfort or Kholle House for charm. Apartments like Emerson on Hurumzi provide local character and historic flair. Booking.com and Airbnb offer a variety of apartments and reliable homestays—search for “WiFi” and “desk” filters.

Nungwi and Kendwa, in the north, have beachfront hotels and guesthouses perfect for relaxation after work, such as The Z Hotel or Flame Tree Cottages. November is shoulder season, so prices are moderate, but book early to secure good internet and workspace amenities, as remote-work travelers often fill the best spots quickly.

Itinerary

Begin your Zanzibar journey by soaking up the island’s vibrant history and Swahili culture, exploring its UNESCO-listed heritage and bustling urban energy.

Historic Walking Tour of Stone Town

Kick off your adventure by exploring the UNESCO-listed streets of Stone Town. Discover famous sites like the House of Wonders, Sultan's Palace, and Old Fort while soaking up the town’s unique blend of Arab, Persian, Indian, and European influences. A local guide will enrich your experience with fascinating stories and insights.

Visit the Old Slave Market & Anglican Cathedral

Gain a deeper understanding of Zanzibar’s complex past at the Old Slave Market and the Anglican Cathedral. Explore the haunting underground chambers and learn about the slave trade’s powerful history and the island’s journey to abolition. Guided tours are both informative and moving.

Forodhani Night Market Culinary Experience

As evening arrives, stroll to Forodhani Garden to savor Zanzibar’s famed street food. Sample fresh seafood, Zanzibari pizza, and sugarcane juice as the waterfront buzzes with locals and travelers. It’s a lively introduction to Swahili gastronomy and nightlife.

2 Days - Mikumi safari depart from Zanzibar or Dar es salaam

2 Days - Mikumi safari depart from Zanzibar or Dar es salaam

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park. It’s also the most accessible from Dar es Salaam. With almost guaranteed wildlife sightings, it makes an ideal safari destination for those without much time (Its a 4 hour drive or 1 hour flight from Dar es Salaam). It is situated less than 300 kilometres from Dar es Salaam, which makes it a very popular park due to its accessibility. The Mikumi flood plain dominates the park, where lion is commonly seen as are packs of wild dog, a rarity elsewhere in Africa. Leopard, Giraffe, elephant, zebra, buffalo, wildebeest, eland, crocodiles, monitor lizard and python are some of the many inhabitants of Mikumi.

4.8 (21 reviews)

From $620 USD

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Experiences

Culture Week in Tanzania
animals

Culture Week in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$495/week

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English Teaching in Tanzania
teaching

English Teaching in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

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Environmental Conservation in Tanzania
volunteering

Environmental Conservation in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

Learn More
Maasai Tribal Immersion in Tanzania
volunteering

Maasai Tribal Immersion in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$430/week

Learn More
Empowering Village Women in Tanzania
volunteering

Empowering Village Women in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$370/week

Learn More
Medical Experience in Tanzania
learning

Medical Experience in Tanzania

Minimum 1 week

Tanzania

$615/week

Learn More

Attractions

4.3 (39 reviews)
Full-Day Blue Lagoon and Sandbank Boat Tour from Zanzibar ( Safari blue)

Full-Day Blue Lagoon and Sandbank Boat Tour from Zanzibar ( Safari blue)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Escape the city crowds for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing on a beautiful Sandbank and the tropical Blue Lagoon, Enjoy a fun and relaxing day out on a shared traditional dhow. Enjoy delicious fresh Seafood Lunch with a sip of local drinks

From $110 USD

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4.2 (21 reviews)
From Zanzibar Day Safari Tour to Mikumi National Park

From Zanzibar Day Safari Tour to Mikumi National Park

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A real safari experience as a day trip from Zanzibar to Mikumi National park. the fourth largest National park in Tanzania, famous for its healthy populations of elephants and buffaloes which can easily be spotted out on the plains. The tamarind trees are a favorite spot for elephants and giraffes who spend hours eating the fruits

From $476 USD

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5.0 (17 reviews)
Zanzibar Spice tour

Zanzibar Spice tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This is our guided walking tour passes through villages and spice plantations, a walk through the farms as spice farms workers climbs trees, seek out specific plants and cuts off various barks, letting you see, feel and taste everything. You will be decorated with palm-leaf accessories such as ties, rings, bracelets and glasses. At the Spice farms you will have an opportunity to taste some of the exotic fruits of Zanzibar. After the tour we will invite you for an opulent traditional Swahili lunch served by locals, here you will get a really taste of the spices in the food. However, this is the best place to buy fresh spices directly from the source. It's advised to do that for supporting the local farmers.

From $70 USD

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4.4 (11 reviews)
Stone Town and Prison Island Tour (Full Day)

Stone Town and Prison Island Tour (Full Day)

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Come and join our experienced guide for a half-day visit. You will be introduced to the historic charms of old Stone Town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage The excursion starts around 9.30 with the visit of the old monuments and exploring the past stories of the sultans and princesses. The visit incorporates a visit to the bustling bazaars, the past slave market, and chambers, the National Museum, the House of Wonders, the Old Fort, the Sultan’s palace as well as cathedrals and countless mosques. Then walk around the narrow streets of Stone Town where most of the houses date back more than 150 years for some shopping and enjoying the arts of the local craftsmen. Visit also a local bakery, door carvers, and antique shops.

From $70 USD

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4.6 (14 reviews)
Traditional Zanzibar Cooking Class including Spice Tour

Traditional Zanzibar Cooking Class including Spice Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Zanzibar is also called the “Spice Island”, besides the beautiful beaches and parks, it offers a unique tour of various types of aromatic spices, also known as “The Spice Tour”. Even though these Zanzibar spices like Cloves, Cinnamon, Nutmeg and Cardamon are commonly used and we all know their taste, hardly anyone would be able to identify them in wild nature. This tour is a unique highlight and absolute must if you want to learn more about the origin of the spices and the traditional food of Zanzibar.

From $68 USD

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3.3 (3 reviews)
Prison Island (Quarantine Island) Tour and Snorkeling Activities in Zanzibar

Prison Island (Quarantine Island) Tour and Snorkeling Activities in Zanzibar

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

This Group Tour which you can have friends and share ideas. Also we prefer for you to do snorkeling at Prison Island.

From $50 USD

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5.0 (6 reviews)
Zanzibar Boat/Yacht Charter

Zanzibar Boat/Yacht Charter

MANUAL

Zanzibar boat or yacht rental/charter for sunset cruise or snorkeling trip. Ideal for group or couple. Various types of boats from wooden dhows to luxury catamaran or yacht

From $150 USD

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4.0 (2 reviews)
Spice Tour Zanzibar

Spice Tour Zanzibar

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Spice Tour is one of the most popular excursions in Zanzibar, the Spice Island. Zanzibar was one of the world’s leading producers of spices such as clove, nutmeg and cinnamon. Spice tour takes you to on organic farm with wide variety of plants around the year. This tour is a walking tour in a spice farm (shamba). While there, you shall see how the spices, herbs and fruits grow and are cultivated. Your tour guide will describe how the crops can be used. You will be smelling and tasting spices, herbs and tropical fruits such as clove, lemongrass, nutmeg, cinnamon, turmeric, vanilla, coconuts, papaya, chili, black pepper, jack fruit, cardamom, cassava and oranges. Once you are finished with the tour, we then take you back to your hotel and drop you off.

From $70 USD

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FAQ

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